Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti is now set to drop left-back Fran Garcia, once Ferland Mendy returns from injury.
That’s according to a report from MARCA, who have claimed that with the Frenchman nearing a return after a long lay-off, he will definitely be the first-choice going forward, with Ancelotti unconvinced by Garcia.
The 24-year-old rejoined Real Madrid after an outstanding spell at Rayo Vallecano and looked set to be a big part of the youthful revolution at the club, but it now appears that he will be dropped to the bench.
Garcia has had a mixed start to the season, impressing in some aspects on the ball, but has made a few noticeable errors, and was substituted at half-time against Getafe after making a major error which led to Borja Mayoral’s goal. Despite this, it would come as a shock to many if he was to lose his place to Mendy so quickly.
Ancelotti should build around Garcia
Mendy has been absent for a very long time, with the 28-year-old struggling with a number of injury problems over the years, but even when fit, he has been inconsistent at times.
The France international has less than two years remaining on his deal at the club, and Garcia looked set to be an option for both this season and the long run.
Dropping him after just four games would be incredibly harsh, and even more so when considering that Mendy does not appear to be a viable long-term solution in the position given his injury record.
Some fans may argue that Ancelotti is being stubborn over his preferred players, and may be choosing to add more experience to the side. Whilst Mendy may not come in immediately as he continues his recovery, it is an underwhelming bombshell that Ancelotti has already decided that he will come straight back into the lineup.